R 107 mercedes SL

[alanwhitnall]

Hi everyone. New on here, i am looking to invest in a new project of obtaining a mercedes R107 SL for my later years enjoyment, is this the place for advice on which models to go for which year and the pit falls to look out for on these older cars
kind regards in anticipation of your response
alan

 

[SilverSaloon]

Hi everyone. New on here, i am looking to invest in a new project of obtaining a mercedes R107 SL for my later years enjoyment, is this the place for advice on which models to go for which year and the pit falls to look out for on these older cars
kind regards in anticipation of your response
alan

try to go for a post facelift 86 to 89.

see my blog here, may be of some help

Mercedes R107 SL Restoration

 

[jdrrco]

welcome to the site. i've just done the same thing myself and i found this book an invaluable guide:

Mercedes-Benz 280SL-560SL Roadsters Essential Buyer's Guide Essential Buyer's Guide Essential Buyer's Guide Series: Amazon.co.uk: Chris Bass: Books

also the sl shop are well worth getting to know: The SL Shop: The SL Shop Home Page

i agree that the later models are the best to go for and either a 300 or 500 depending on your preference for mph or mpg

here's my baby: http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/members/jdrrco-albums-300sl.html

 

[Timper]

Absolutley gorgeous!

 

[wobbly]

I would be looking at the post 1986 models, they may look the same as the older cars, but the improvements are huge. When I was looking to buy I drove an early 280, and then drove the later 500, there was no comparison

Certain parts can be very expensive, especially trim parts, such as bumpers, and interior fittings.

Service parts are reasonably priced.

Check for rust, everywhere, including the plenum chamber, as these rust from the inside, and can cost more than the car is worth to fix.

Buy on condition, and not mileage, these cars were built to last.

My advice, is find a clean 86-89, 500 and enjoy.

 

[spanner]

When I was looking to buy I drove an early 280, and then drove the later 500, there was no comparison

Without meaning to insult you, this comparison is only valid if you've driven a lot of different examples. All of these cars are getting old and all, unless they've been maintained by someone experienced on the model and without compromise, will have defects. These defects may be small or large but simply driving the first one you come across and then comparing it to the second one is not going to tell you anything, regardless of whether it's a pre or post 86 or a straight 6 or V8.
It is true that there were significant changes at the changeover year, but the earlier ones should not be dismissed out of hand. The 280 engine for example, has a unique character that some find very pleasing.
As I said, not really directed at anyone in particular, just a general observation.

 

[wobbly]

Without meaning to insult you,

So why say it!

Post your comments, and leave it at that.